Lifestyle Changes to Prepare for Plastic Surgery

By Sheryl Pilcher on September 09, 2016

Plastic surgery offers patients many cosmetic benefits. Body contouring procedures can enhance the figure, while facial plastic surgery smooths out fine lines and wrinkles to restore a more youthful appearance. With all the excitement surrounding the promised results of plastic surgery, it can be easy to forget that these treatments are serious surgical procedures. Dr. Sheryl Pilcher is an experienced plastic surgeon that has a proven reputation of providing beautiful plastic surgery results. Still, even in the hands of a skilled surgeon such as Dr. Pilcher, patients should do all they can to help ensure a positive surgical outcome. By making certain lifestyle changes before plastic surgery, our San Antonio patients can minimize the risk of surgical complications, shorten the recovery period, and enhance the aesthetic results of treatment.

1. Quit Smoking

Most smokers have probably grown tired of hearing how harmful this habit can be. While it is always a great idea to quit smoking, it is essential to refrain from tobacco for at least four weeks before plastic surgery and another six weeks after treatment. Smoking increases the risk of surgical complications and has been shown to prolong the recovery period.

2. Refrain from Taking Certain Medications

It is important to discuss medication use with Dr. Pilcher prior to undergoing plastic surgery. Many people are on regular medications that must be maintained up to, and including, the day of surgery. However, certain medications can thin the blood and increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. Even over-the-counter medications such as aspirin can pose a risk. It is best to discuss the use of all prescribed and over-the-counter medications, as well as vitamins and supplements, with Dr. Pilcher so she can make appropriate recommendations regarding how these should be used (or avoided) in the weeks leading up to surgery.

3. Exercise

Exercise is great for the heart and promotes the overall health of the entire body. Regular exercise also helps in the maintenance of a healthy body weight, and boosts the immune system. These are all benefits that are especially advantageous when recovering from plastic surgery. Evidence shows that those patients who get 30 minutes of cardiovascular activity at least three to five time per week will have a shorter recovery period and are less likely to experience post-surgical complications.

4. Eat a Balanced Diet

Nutrition is just as important as exercise in the maintenance of a healthy body weight. A balanced diet not only promotes a healthy weight, but it also ensures that patients get all the nutrients that the body needs to maintain a healthy immune system. It is important to eat a diet that is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber in the weeks leading up to surgery, as well as during recovery. A well-balanced diet can improve general health and prepare the body for a quick and easy surgical recovery.

5. Take it Easy

To ensure the best surgical outcome, patients need to be in the right place physically and mentally. It is important not to take on too much stress in the weeks before surgery. Stress can compromise the immune system, increase the risk of surgical complications, and lengthen the recovery period. If anxiety is high leading up to surgery, patients should consider practices such as meditation and yoga to relax the mind and body.

Schedule an Appointment

With proper preparation and the skill of an experienced surgeon such as Dr. Sheryl Pilcher, plastic surgery can be a safe and effective option for those looking to enhance their natural beauty. If you’re interested in learning more about the full range of cosmetic treatments offered by Dr. Pilcher, and how they can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.